https://ebird.org/checklist/S154401817
Date: November 8, 2023
Location: Pacheco Pond (38.0774″N, -122.531″W)
Site Description: Pacheco Pond is a freshwater pond located in Novato, California. The pond is surrounded by various habitats such as open grassland, oak woodland, and riparian forest. Oak woodlands make a variety of trees and shrubs which provide good nesting sites for various birds. Some key bird species include Great blue herons, Green herons, Mallard ducks, Lesser yellowlegs, Black-necked stilt, etc.
Species Account: Semipalmated Plover (Charadrius semipalmatus)
The Semipalmated Plover is a small-medium-sized shorebird with a round body around 18-22 centimeters in length. Its plumage is characterized by a pale, sandy brown on its upper body and a white underbelly. The face has a black mask around the eyes and a white forehead with a single dark breastband. Its legs are partially webbed, hence its name “semipalmated.” They are usually often spotted in coastal habitats, and seen foraging along the water’s edge on sandy beaches, mudflats, etc. Their primary diet includes small invertebrates such as insects and crustaceans. They are also known for their extensive migration patterns. They are very social and form flocks often during migration. Their mating system is involves monogamous pairs. They were seen far off in the pond.
Narrative:
We left campus around 8:25 in the morning, I felt bad since I was late due to traffic and the whole class was waiting for me. Anyways, the weather was fairly warm with a nice breeze. On the drive there, we saw a peregrine falcon perched on a pole – poor Sunaina couldn’t see her favorite bird! We reached around 9:03 AM. The pond and the nature was pretty to see. The first bird we saw, we were unable to identify it since it was pretty hard to see the face clearly. As we continued to bird, we saw many beautiful shorebirds. I was hoping to see a bald eagle but hopefully next time!
Sources:
https://ebird.org/species/semplo
Photos:
